Kenneth Zarlingo

SPC Kenneth Edward Zarlingo, 57, of Omaha, Nebraska, formerly of Granite City, Illinois, passed on April 3, 2025 in his beautiful sunshine and love-filled home following a brave fight with cancer.

Ken worked with his hands all of his life. He drew and painted and restored furniture beautifully. He was a true artisan who appreciated beauty in all things living and inanimate. For years, he made his living working with glass, installing it and etching it and later admiring other artist’s creations using it.

He was also a decorated soldier, completing a tour in the Army that included a campaign in Afghanistan. He was proud to be a part of The Big Red One and the friends he made while in the Army were among his dearest.

He was a devoted fan of the St. Louis Blues and always looked forward to game day.

Ken is proceeded in death by his mother Diane Zarlingo née Lynch and his father Albert Zarlingo both of Glen Carbon, Illinois.

He is survived by his pride and joy, his sons Kenny and Jake (Jamie) Zarlingo and his beloved grandchildren Theo and Lucy who he was most saddened to leave. He also leaves his longtime companion, Cheri Francke who cared well for him to the end, and his former wife and sons’ mother, Michelle Bonge-Conradson. He leaves a brother, two sisters, nieces and nephews, and many dear friends, all of whom adored him and will miss him greatly. He also leaves his dogs, Bonnie and Clyde who made him laugh every day.

Ken will be interred at the Omaha National Cemetery 14250 Schram Rd. in Omaha, Nebraska at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, April 25th. In lieu of flowers, all memorial gestures should be directed to the Omaha Veteran’s Administration or directly to the family.